Posts Tagged ‘Moving to London from US’
Thursday June 2nd, 2011
Living In London – ‘All My Bag’s Are Packed…’ - Image via Flickr
Part of the moving to London process will be your packing and storage before you leave your home town. Packing for an international move is a lot more complicated than a local move. You need to be fairly organized to make sure that when you’re unpacking in your new London rental that you’re able to settle in as fast as possible.
- The Goodie Box: This is a box that contains essential items that you’ll need immediately. A first aid kit, some snacks from home, toiletries and other items that you may need immediately. I always like to include fresh, clean linen in my international goodie box. The first thing that I do when settling into a new home is to make the bed! That way, even if you’re not finished unpacking at the end of a long day, you can slip into bed without having to hunt through your boxes to find clean sheets!
- Pack Wise: Don’t overload your boxes for transport. It might be fine when the moving company is in charge of them, but when you have to heft them up three flights of stairs to your new London apartment, you’ll appreciate the value of packing light. If you do have to pack really heavy items then pack them in smaller boxes to try and distribute the weight.
- Use your linen and towels to wrap breakables: You’re packing two things at once that way. Use large containers such as pots to put smaller items in, it saves space and money when you’re paying by the box. Remember to check if your electrical appliances will work when you are living in London. Getting conversions done is expensive and a waste of time. If it won’t work, leave it behind!
- Label ALL of your boxes according to what room they need to go into. If you have time to list all of the contents, do it on a separate spread sheet and categorize your boxes by number as well.
Don’t try to do everything in one day when you’re trying to get settled in. Take frequent breaks and spend some time in your new neighborhood. You’ll be stuck into the daily grind of work and travel soon enough when you’re living in London.
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, canadians moving to london, canadians moving to london uk, England, fun facts about london england, living in London, London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, Moving to London, moving to London England, moving to london from america, Moving to London from US, Packing and Shipping Supplies, relocating to London, things to know about london, Tourism
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Living in London, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation & What People Say About Us, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocating to UK: Visas, Banking, & Other Logisitical Issues
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Tuesday May 31st, 2011
Living In London – Your London Pass- Image via Wikipedia
If you are an American moving to London, or if you have just started living in London and have some time before you start your new job then taking a tour of the best tourist attractions is going to be high on your agenda. It’ll give you a great idea of how to get around the city as well as giving you the chance to experience London as a tourist before you settle down to the job of being a native Londoner! Many American expats are living in London and almost all want to see the things they have only heard about before moving to London.
Get a London Pass
The London Pass will allow you to experience over 50 top London tourist attractions for a lot less. Although there is a higher outlay to start with, you will be saving a huge amount of money when you visit places like the London Eye or The Tower of London. You can also purchase a London Pass that includes the price of your travel around London, which is a fantastic way to get to know your new home now that you are an American expat living in London.
London as a tourist means long lines to get into the attractions and even longer waiting times. If you have a London Pass, you get to skip the queues (lines) and enjoy the sights without wasting any time. If you have friends and family visiting you after you have settled into your new London rental, -and you will have lots of visitors, then the London Pass is a great way to introduce people to everything that London has to offer.
The London Pass does not just include transport and tickets to get into the attractions. It is a complete package and you can join tours, go on river cruises and get into exhibitions as they open in London.
If you are an American moving to London then you will need to budget for a London pass as soon as you arrive. Not only do you get free entry into over 5 top attractions but you get a top quality guidebook that will help you plan your London tours and travel to get the best value out of your London Pass.
Tags: american expats in london, American expats living in London, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, England, living in London, London, London Living, London Pass, London Relocation, Moving to London, moving to London England, Moving to London from US, relocating to London
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Americans Moving to London
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Monday May 30th, 2011
US stars and stripes alongside the UK Union Jack - An American Expatriate Patriot in London! Image by Getty Images via @daylife
Author: Colleen
Moving to London is a life-changing event that had wrought massive homesickness when I first moved over, which recurs each time I visit home and must return again. It’s funny, though, how after a couple years I did start finding myself a bit homesick for London instead during my first days visiting home—I miss my husband, my cute lil’ London apartment, my London friends, London architecture and culture, and just my casual London everyday existence as I’m taken out of my routine.
And yet here I sit, in my childhood bedroom the day before returning to London after two weeks in the States, and I find myself now acclimated back to my Chicago way of living—my family, my parents’ cute lil’ yellow house, my Chicago friends, Chicago spaciousness and convenience (like my car!!!), and just my casual Chicago everyday existence as I’m reinserted in my old routine.
It kinda sucks. And yet it’s also kinda great. This is the expat experience of straddling two homes, the home where you live and the home where you came from, though “home” might be, for some, not a matter of geographic location but where your heart resides. In my case, my heart is still in Chicago, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t made room in it for London. I feel like it’s thanks to my current London expat life that, when we repatriate, I’ll be able to embrace my Chicago life with an expanded outlook that will appreciate it differently, and perhaps I’ll live it even better from where I’d left off. For as much I’ve remained the same, after moving to London, personal growth and awareness have snuck up on me .
Being an American expat living in London means having to say goodbye more often than I’d prefer, but it’s also getting to say hello with more and more enthusiasm with every next embrace. It’s focusing your lenses to better see what matters, taking stock of what’s no longer in your backyard and relishing what you do have for the time being before life takes you on another journey somewhere else or from whence you came. And just when you might think you’re only relocating to London for a job, studying abroad, or meeting new people, you just might find you’re moving to London to meet yourself again.
I tell you, “America the Beautiful” literally brought tears to my eyes for the first time when I listened to it yesterday with new ears; my heart likewise wells with pride when I see the Union Jack flag flapping amidst Britain’s celebrations. I’m proud to be a citizen of one fine country while the resident of another, and perhaps, in future, instead of singing the words to “My Country ‘Tis of Thee” or “God Save the Queen,” I’ll just hum the sweet little tune that accompanies both (FYI, if you didn’t realize that…) so I’ll never have to truly say goodbye to either.
Bidding all Americans (whether home or abroad) a happy Memorial Day today! I’m off to go celebrate it here Stateside. 
Tags: american expats in london, Americans relocating to London, celebrating memorial day in london, flats to let in london, living in London, london move, london relocation agent, London Relocation Services, Moving to London from US, rent london apartments
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Living in London, London Relocation & What People Say About Us, Moving to London: Tips & Culture
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Monday May 30th, 2011
Living In London – It’s All About You Part II- Image via Wikipedia
Finding the right place to live when you are moving to London is going to be your first step. It’s important to start thinking and researching before you make the move so you have a good idea of what you’re looking for when you touch down for your adventure in London. You need to establish what your needs are before you arrive. Not only will it narrow the search, but if you are using an agent to help you find your new London rental, it will give them a better idea of what to show you.
Amenities
What do you really need close to your home? Are you moving to London with children? Schooling and community activities will be a huge factor in deciding where you are going to live. The further away from central London that you live, the greater your need for transport will be. If you’re single and like to party then you may love living on the busy and bustling High Street, but if you like your peace and quiet then you may want to choose a London apartment that is slightly off the main streets. There is no absolute when you’re moving to London, but it is important to figure out what YOU want before you arrive.
Singles need to pay particular attention to safety, especially if you’re female, and choosing a London apartment close to work and in central London may be better than having to face a long tube rid home late at night. Just spend some time before you move to London to establish what you want out of your London experience.
Many people moving to London choose to use a relocation service to help them get settled as fast as possible. It’s like having a friend on the ground before you leave home, and your relocation service will be able to narrow down the search based on your personal preferences so you do not waste time house hunting, but have the opportunity to get out and explore your new city.
Tags: Accommodation, american expats in london, Americans moving to London, living in London, London, london facts, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, london relocation agent, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, moving to London England, Moving to London from US, relocating to London, Relocation service, Travel and Tourism
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Americans Moving to London, Living in London, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation & What People Say About Us, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocating to UK: Visas, Banking, & Other Logisitical Issues, Shopping in London Places
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Saturday May 28th, 2011
Image via Wikipedia
Author: Colleen
Hi there, Weekend Warriors getting geared up to move to London! Over the last couple weeks, I’ve discussed the international relocation matter of deciding whether to rent or buy a house in London and, if buying, what that process may entail. Last week, I’d specifically mentioned how the internet can be a good resource for kick-starting your research into home-buying. Remember, you’ll want to undertake the critical viewing steps in person here in London, but until you can get here, your computer can help you know where to begin.
The Times Online offers “A Basic Guide to Mortgages” that you can peruse for better understanding of such, especially if you’re a first-time buyer unfamiliar with the lingo and concepts. The government also offers a HomeBuy equity loan scheme for first-time buyers that earn less than £60,000 annually and can’t otherwise afford to buy a home in their area. This equity loan covers up to the remaining 30% cost of a property when at least 70% of it is already paid for through deposit and mortgage. I am assuming any London resident could be eligible, expats included, but be sure to enquire on this to be certain if you think you’d otherwise be eligible for this option (more information can be found at www.direct.gov.uk).
Another consideration to look into is the Stamp Tax on purchases/transfers of UK property. This is a duty ranging from 1-5% that is payable on properties valued in excess of £125,000. First-time buyers also catch a break here as of March last year through March 24, 2012, during which time they’re exempt from the 1% stamp tax on properties costing between £125,000 and £250,000. Bear in mind, however, that “first-time buyer” applies not only to someone who hasn’t previously owned property in the UK but anywhere in the world. I’m not kidding. I also have no idea how they follow up on this to verify, but that’s what they claim, anyway. At any rate, the stamp tax is what homeowners in the UK find a real kick in the pants (or trousers, as the Brits would say).
Finally, if you’re wanting to feel out what types of housing is available in what neighborhoods and at what prices, a few online resources are www.findaproperty.com, www.rightmove.co.uk, and www.zoopla.co.uk.
Good luck with your research, and, remember, if you’re still considering renting a London apartment as you explore your buying options or would even just like more information on certain London neighborhoods and what to expect in local properties, London Relocation Ltd. (the 2010/11 winner of Re:locate Magazine’s Rising Star Award!) is an invaluable resource that you can consult via phone or online.
Tags: buying a house in london, Equity loan, First-time buyer, london apartment, london apartments, London Relocation Services, Mortgage loan, moving to london england from canada, Moving to London from US, overseas moving tips, packing for an overseas move, packing tips for moving abroad, packing tips for moving overseas, packing to move abroad, packing to move overseas, packing to move to London, relocating to london from overseas, rent london, renting versus buying in london
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London Weekend Warriors, Saturday Moving Tips
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Friday May 27th, 2011
Who you gonna call? Getting the 411 (or 118-118 in the UK!) on London relocation resources. Image via Wikipedia
Author: Colleen
I’m in a list-y sort of mood today. Now, I’d mentioned the other day how my visit home in the States right now brings back all sorts of memories of the logistical relocation matters my husband and I had to sort out before officially moving to London from the US and renting our London apartment. So I figure this might be a good time to share a smattering of resources we continually blog about here and suggest to clients at the London Relocation office, a directory of sorts for some key aspects of moving internationally and, specifically, to London:
UK policies, public services, consumer affairs, etc.
UK Home Office
Direct.gov.uk
Adviceguide.org.uk
UK visas
UK Border Agency
UK taxes
HM Revenue & Customs
Foreign embassies in London
Directory of Consulates & Embassies
Healthcare
National Health Service (NHS)
School search
Good Schools Guide
Pet relocation
Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
Petrelocation.com
UK mobile phones
Carphone Warehouse
Insurance comparison
comparethemarket.com (not to be confused with comparethemeerkat.com :))
gocompare.com
confused.com
London public transportation
Transport for London
Driving in London
Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency
Vehicle Tax and other owner advice on direct.gov.uk
Zipcar
AutoShippers & CarShipUK
Self-help for expats
Expat Expert
Impetus Coaching
Guidance on other logistical issues
Packing & other move advice
UK voltage differences
UK utilities (TV, phone, internet)
UK banking codes
Negotiating an expat package
Grocery shopping (and click here for discounts!)
Learning British English
You can find elaborations on many of these resources right here in our blog archives if you search for the keyword(s) of interest, some of which are already linked above under the last section above. The key to knowing how to initiate and execute your move to London begins with knowing where to look, so I hope you find the above useful in addition to your one-stop resource on all-things-London (from renting London apartments to getting acclimated to your new city and culture) here at London Relocation – give us a call or ask us your questions via our online web form today!
Tags: americans moving to london uk, canadians moving to london england, guidance for moving abroad, international movers, london relocation agent, London Relocation Services, moving overseas, Moving to London from US, Pet relocation, relocating to london england, rent london apartments, UK Border Agency, uk healthcare, uk taxes, UK visa
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London Relocation & What People Say About Us, Relocating to UK: Visas, Banking, & Other Logisitical Issues, Rent in London: London Apartment Tips
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Friday May 27th, 2011
Living In London – Home(sick) in the Big City- Image via Flickr
If you have been living in London for a short while, you may be experiencing bouts of homesickness and loneliness. If you are moving to London with a partner or spouse, you might find that the transition is easy, but if you’re a single in the city, you may find it a challenge to adjust to living in London.
Culture Shock
Many people think they are homesick, but really you’re just adjusting to living in one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. Be prepared for the culture shock, and use it as a gateway to a unique adventure. Many Americans moving to London think that living in London will be similar to living in the States. It isn’t.
The first thing you’ll have to get used to is the language barrier. Despite popular believe that England and America both use English as a common language, the differences might have you reeling for a few months. The trick to avoiding culture shock and homesickness is to get out of your new London rental and mix with as many people as you can. One of the great aspects of living in London is that you’ll be able to meet people from all over the world. It really is a cultural melting pot; dive in!
Meeting people and asking questions is the best way to get over the fact that you’re alone in the big city. Don’t spend time comparing how you do things back home, you’ll never integrate and make a real go of your life in London if you’re going to continually compare and contrast. It might be hard to meet people and you’re not going to start up conversations with random strangers on the tube. The best advice is to start chatting to your colleagues at work. Joining in is the most important aspect of fitting in and if you’re feeling homesick and lonely then get out of your new London flat and join a community activity. Sports teams, adult classes and community based groups are one of the best ways of meeting new people.
Living in London can be scary sometimes. It’s bustling, big and very busy. Give it some time, you’ll soon discover that moving to London is the best decision that you’ve ever made.
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, canadians moving to london, living in London, London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, london relocation agent, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, moving to London England, Moving to London from US, relocating to London
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Living in London, London Neighborhoods, London Neighborhoods, London Recreation, London Relocation & What People Say About Us, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Shopping in London Places
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Thursday May 26th, 2011
Living In London – Which Side Are You On?- Image via Wikipedia
With 118 postcodes or neighborhood’s to explore, you’ll never run out of things to do. The biggest question facing you when you are moving to London however is going to be which one of those postcodes are you going to live in. When you’re choosing your rental, your first decision is going to be whether you’re ‘North’ or ‘South’.
The Great North vs. South Debate
Throughout history there has always been friction between the North and the South. In every country and in many cities there is an imaginary line dividing North and South. As an American moving to London you’ll know all about the Civil War between the North and South that divided America and still does to a certain extent.
While there are no actual battles between the North and South in London, you’ll find that it is a hotly debated issue everywhere. People are convinced that their area is the best and although there is never a resolution, you might want to get in on the debate while you are deciding where you are going to be living.
You’ll have to listen to both sides of the argument before you make a decision. Be sure that you also get some objective advice on the pros and cons of living in the North or the south of this massive city.
Essentially, the city of London is divided by the River Thames, which winds its way through the city. North London includes the east and west of London, because they are definitely north of the river. There are some north London areas that have south London postcodes, just to confuse you in traditional British fashion.
Most Americans moving to London tend to settle in North London and by north London we actually mean West London but there is much to be said for living south of the mighty Thames. The best advice you can get is to explore all the areas of London that will give you fast access to your job and will fulfill your requirements as to amenities.
The only problem is that both the North and the South have it all!
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, canadians moving to london uk, England, flats to let in london, fun facts about london england, living in London, London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, Moving to London, moving to london from america, Moving to London from US, north london, relocating to London, things to know about london
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Living in London, London Neighborhoods, London Neighborhoods, London Recreation, London Relocation & What People Say About Us, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Relocating to UK: Visas, Banking, & Other Logisitical Issues
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Wednesday May 25th, 2011
Living In London – Three Reasons Why You’ll Love Living In London - Image via Wikipedia
Just in case you’re still deciding whether or not to move to London. I thought I’d give you five excellent reasons why London is one of the best places in the world to live. Moving to London will be one of the biggest adventures that you may ever have and whether you stay six months or six years you’re going to love it!
- Cultural Melting Pot: London is a city of travelers and many Londoners are not from London or even England. Living here will expose you to people from different countries, different cultures and a diverse range of interests. Meeting people from all over the world has to be one of the top reasons for spending time in this fantastic city. London is one of the most social cities in the world, so get out just as soon as you have moved in and meet the world!
- Culture Club: Not only is London a cultural melting pot, it is also one of the most important cities in the world if you are looking for a little culture in your life. Most of the museums and art galleries are free in London and the city of London is the art capital of Europe. From community theatre to the blazing lights of Shaftsbury Avenue in the West End, there is always theatre, music, and art that will thrill you, challenge you and give you a good dollop of culture.
- Sensational Shopping: If you have some cash to splash then London is a dream city. Even if you’re on a tight budget, you can have some fun shopping. Oxford Street, Bond Street and Knightsbridge are the premier shopping destinations. This is where the well-to-do and the well-heeled come out to play. If you’re looking for something unusual and different, then head to the smaller markets and neighborhoods for your shopping experience.
You won’t be living in London for long before you realize that you’re a part of one of the most vibrant cities in the entire world; now get out there and live in it!
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, Bond Street, canadians moving to london, canadians moving to london uk, England, English language, Knightsbridge, living in London, London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, Moving to London, moving to London England, moving to london from america, Moving to London from US, Oxford Street, relocating to London, River Thames, Travel and Tourism
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Living in London, London Neighborhoods, London Neighborhoods, London Recreation, London Relocation & What People Say About Us, Moving to London: London Sightseeing, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Shopping in London Places
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Wednesday May 25th, 2011
Living In London – Summer Sensations - Image via Flickr
If you’re moving to London during the summer, you’ll be in for a treat. There is so much to do and see during the summer in London, and the weather means you’ll be able to get out and really explore the city before settling in for the long winter.
London during the summer can be a bit of a hot box, so if you can, try to avoid the tube on hot days. Rather take a bus or overground rail journey to get to where you need to be. Always carry a bottle of water with you when you travel, and if you feel unwell you can ask for assistance at any time. You may find that your apartment is actually hot and possibly a bit stifling during the summer months. That double glazing on the windows will be great come winter, but if you may want to consider investing in a fan for those hot, sweaty summer nights.
As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, you’ll want to spend as much time as possible outside. Many pubs and restaurants open up Beer Gardens during the summer. Long lazy afternoons by the river while sipping your cocktail become the way to spend your Saturdays. Look out for al-fresco dining and riverside cafes and bars if you want to spend time enjoying your meal outdoors.
London is a tourist haven during the summer months, and while you can’t really consider yourself a tourist if you’re living in London, you can fit as many tourist attractions into your schedule as possible. Take advantage of the London Pass and other discount schemes available for the major tourist sites. Explore your new home like a tourist, safe in the knowledge that you can go back home at the end of the day, Revel in everything that London has to offer during the summer. Winter is long, cold and harsh and you’ll dream of summer days while you shiver through the winter months.
Tags: Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, Buckingham Palace, canadians moving to london, canadians moving to london uk, England, Hampton Court Palace, living in London, London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Pass, London Relocation, London relocation specialist, move to London, Moving to London, moving to London England, moving to london from america, Moving to London from US, relocating to London, relocating to london england, Tourism, Travel and Tourism, Travel Guides
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Living in London, London Neighborhoods, London Neighborhoods, London Transportation, Moving to London: Tips & Culture
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Tuesday May 24th, 2011
Living In London – Pub Crawling - Image via Flickr
While you’re living in London, you have to go on a pub crawl, at least once. It’s a great way to explore your new city and a fantastic way to meet new friends after you have settled into your new London apartment. The idea behind a pub crawl is not to have you crawling along the sidewalk from pub to pub, so you’ll have to take it easy on the drinking if you’re going to make it through the night.
The best way to enjoy a pub crawl is to sign up for one of the large tours that take place every night. You’ll get massive discounts on your entry fee to the bars and clubs in the city as well as special prices for your drinks. You can even choose to go on a themed pub crawl for the evening and enjoy finding out about the city while you make your way through the maze of pubs and bars that make London nightlife so much fun.
One of the best pub crawls in London is the Ye Olde Tavern Pub Crawl. The tour takes in fifteen pubs over a night and you’ll have the chance to hoist a pint in some of London’s oldest and most famous pubs.
If you’re looking for something fun, why not try a Monopoly Pub Crawl with your friends. With over 26 pubs on the Monopoly board you’ll have to make sure you’re able to make them all. While the Monopoly Pub Crawl is not an organized event, it’s a great way to entertain your visitors from overseas for a day out. Starting early is the key to being able to finish sober!
The pub is a part of live in every British city, town and village. Everyone in England has a ‘local’ and part of being a Londoner is to find a pub in your neighborhood that suits you. Check out a few pubs in the neighborhood before you find the perfect fit. Most pubs offer great food and dining as a part of the menu and you’ll always be able to call London your home if you’ve got a ‘local’ pub to go to…a place “where everybody knows your name!”
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, Buckingham Palace, Business and Economy, canadians moving to london uk, England, living in London, London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, london relocation agent, London Relocation Services, Moving to London, Moving to London from US, Pub crawl, relocating to London, Restaurant, Restaurants and Bars, Saint Patrick's Day, tips on living in london
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Living in London, London Neighborhoods, London Neighborhoods, London Recreation, Moving to London: London Sightseeing, Moving to London: Tips & Culture, Shopping in London Places
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Tuesday May 24th, 2011
Living In London – The Name’s Bond, James Bond…- Image via Flickr
When you’re living in London, you’re living in one of the most iconic cities in the world. So many characters from films and television shows have made their way to worldwide prominence and they are all tied inextricably to the great city of London.
If you’re an American moving to London then this is the time to try out some uniquely British style cars. If you fancy giving James Bond a run for his money then why not try an Aston Martin. While we would never advocate owning or using a car in the city center, you can get out for the day and experience the speed and thrill of driving one of the truly unique British cars that has ever been built.
Silverstone is the home of British motor racing and if you have never experienced the thrill of race day, then you can have the opportunity to spend some time on the track in one of the world’s fastest cars. With a top speed of 175 miles per hour and the power to go from 0-60 in under 5 seconds, you’ll not only feel like James Bond in a high speed chase, but you’ll look pretty good too!
Even if you don’t want to be in the driver’s seat, a visit to Silverstone is a great way to enjoy a day out and visit one of the world’s most famous racetracks. For over 60 years, Silverstone has been considered one of the finest circuits in the world. If you can manage to get tickets, then you simply have to attend the world class Formula 1 race weekend held on 8, 9 and 10 July 2011. Formula 1 is the international equivalent of the Indy 500. It’s a high class event and is a part of the great London social summer season. Beautiful women, fast cars and the elite from the world of racing combine into a fantasy weekend of speed, adrenalin and high powered fun.
There is so much to do when you’re living in London, you’ll just have to stay forever, to fit it all in.
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, Aston Martin, Bernie Ecclestone, canadians moving to london, canadians moving to london uk, Formula One, Formula racing, James Bond, living in London, London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, london relocation agent, Moving to London, moving to London England, Moving to London from US, relocating to London, Silverstone, Silverstone Circuit, things to know about london
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Living in London, London Neighborhoods, London Neighborhoods, London Recreation, London Relocation & What People Say About Us, Moving to London: London Sightseeing, Moving to London: Tips & Culture
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Tuesday May 24th, 2011
Living In London – Outdoor London- Image via Wikipedia
Just as soon as you have settled into your new London apartment, you need to consider getting out and spending the long summer days enjoying the good weather. If you are used to an outdoors lifestyle, you may think that moving to London will give you no opportunity to enjoy nature and outdoor activities.
Yes. London is a massive city, but it is also one of the greenest cities in the world. A stroll round one of the many parks and open spaces will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. If you’re looking for something a little more exciting and you want to get your adrenalin pumping then why not try some of the adventure sports and activities that are available in or close to London.
Paintball
This is an extremely popular sport/activity for young Londoners and there are a number of excellent paintball facilities close to the center of London. Paintballing is a great way to meet people, and have a day of fun in the outdoors. You will get dirty; you have been warned!
Kayaking
Yes. Right here in London! You don’t even have to leave the city to enjoy this sport. With the River Thames winding its way throughout the city you can explore the city from a totally different angle. The kayak season is from April until October and this adventure starts from Regents Park and lasts for about two hours. It’s great if you’ve never wobbled your way into a kayak before and for people who live for the thrill of rafting and kayaking.
Country Walks and Rambles
London is surrounded by some of the most beautiful countryside and if you want to get out of the city for a day, then the Home Counties offer some truly remarkable country walks and rambles. You can even explore the quaint English countryside on horseback if you want to spend some time getting back to nature while you are living in London.
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Monday May 23rd, 2011
Checking and updating your Oyster card balance after a London move - Image via Wikipedia
Author: Colleen
Welcome to the next installment of my “Idiot’s Guide to the Oyster Card,” which I started last Friday to help you out if you’re moving to London and don’t want to look like a tourist trying to navigate the city. Last week I discussed how to buy your Oyster card and use it at the tube station gates; today, I’ll explain how to add to your Oyster card balance, as well as where else you’ll be able to use it.
If the tube station gates don’t show you your balance on entry and/or exit, you can simply tap it on the same type of round, yellow Oyster pad found on the kiosks that line the walls of every tube station to view it. You can also use these kiosks to add money as necessary to your Oyster balance. The touch-screen will show you your options, but the typical transaction entails this:
1. Tap your Oyster against the yellow pad for a second or two until you see the touch-screen register your Oyster balance.
2. Select the onscreen button for top up/pay as you go. (“Topping Up” is the oft-used phrase for adding to your account balances, Oyster or otherwise)
3. On the next screen, select the button representing the GBP pound amount you want to add (displayed in 5 or 10 pound increments). Or, you can select the button “Another Amount” and drop the applicable amount of change into the machine or charge to your debit or credit card.
4. If charging to your debit or credit card, just insert it into the reader to the right and use the keypad to enter your PIN if applicable.
5. Regardless of whether you pay with cash or card, you’ll be asked to then tap your Oyster card against the yellow pad to officially add the additional amount to it and thereby complete your transaction.
When using one of these kiosks, bear in mind that not all of them accept cash. The narrower ones are usually debit/credit card only, and the ones accepting paper and/or coins are at least twice as wide. You’ll also see a digital screen above each one specifying which form(s) of payment are accepted.
You can use the Oyster card on London buses as well. When you step aboard, you’ll see the same yellow Oyster pad under the bus driver’s window. Tap it (remember to hold it there, though, until you hear the beep) and look to the little digital screen to the left to see your remaining balance. In the case of the bus, then, you pay one flat rate from the start, so do not need to tap again when you exit the vehicle.
You might also need to seek out the yellow Oyster pad on some Overground train platforms in the event you take the tube to a station that services both Under- and Overground trains and you need to transfer between the two. In the case where you’ll be going from the tube train directly to the ground-level platform rather than exiting the station altogether, you won’t be able to tap your Oyster on the exit gates to register your destination (which thereby determines your deducted balance). Rather, you’ll have to tap it on the pad found on the train platform aboveground to ensure the proper amount is deducted from your card given the distance you’ve traveled. If you forget to do this, your Oyster will automatically be deducted the maximum fare (4 pounds, last I was aware).
Okay then, now you’ve got your ticket to ride, so bon voyage on all the intercity travels to follow your
London move.
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, canadians moving to london, canadians moving to london uk, living in London, London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Relocation, london relocation agent, London Relocation Services, London relocation specialist, Moving to London, Moving to London from US, Oyster card, Public transport, relocating to London, relocating to london england, relocation agents, rent london apartments, things to know about london, Travelcard, tube map
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Monday May 23rd, 2011
Living In London – Summer Sensations Part III- Image via Wikipedia
Beginning your ‘living in London’ adventure at the start of summer means that you’re in for a right royal treat. London puts on her best every summer for the thousands upon thousands of tourists that visit England’s green and pleasant time every year. Of course, just as soon as you have settled into your new London rental, you’re no longer considered a tourist! You’re one of us now, and summer is the best time to get out and explore your new city. This week we’re spending some time giving you the Londoner’s guide to where to go and what to do during the halcyon days of summer in London.
Weather or Not?
Just because it’s summer you should still be prepared for any type of weather while you’re out discovering what your new home has to offer. In recent years the month of September has been warmer than July and August, but for the most part you can expect extremely hot days, or cold and rainy days, or the occasional shower, or not. That is about the most predictable one can be about the weather in England!
If you haven’t seen our previous posts about living in London and the weather, this is your most important tip: Never complain about the weather to a native Londoner. As a foreigner, you’re just not allowed to! That said, be prepared for a lot of moaning about the weather from the English themselves.
The best thing about living in London during in the summer is that you will be able to get out and discover the parks and green spaces within the city. London has some of the best parks in the world and is one of the greenest cities in the world. If you’re new to London and want to get out for the day then the most famous parks in London are Hyde Park and the adjacent Kensington Gardens. It’s one of the best starting points of a city tour and you’ll feel right at home among the tourists and Londoner’s alike.
Tags: american expats in london, Americans moving to London, americans moving to london uk, canadians moving to london, canadians moving to london uk, England, English language, fun facts about london england, Hyde Park, Hyde Park London, Kensington Gardens, living in London, London, London Living, london move, london moving, London Neighborhoods, London Relocation, Moving to London, moving to London England, Moving to London from US, relocating to London, things to know about london, Travel and Tourism
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